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demographic changes driving culture change

  • 1.  demographic changes driving culture change

    Posted 08-31-2019 18:13

    Dear Colleagues,

    I am trying to locate research that has examined how changing demographics within an organisation drive cultural change.  I want to find evidence-based examples (case studies would be great) showing that hiring many demographic minority members in a short period of time produces faster cultural change – because it amplifies their voice, provides social support, surfaces needs that benefit many employees, etc. 

    Theoretically, Kanter (1977) has talked about male/female proportions changed within-organisation dynamics.  Thomas & Ely (1996) talked about new Hispanic hires changed a law firm's identity (along with the work they did, the clients they served).  I'm looking for more recent empirical examples of organisations that experienced this change.  Not the theory – but the examples that illustrate the theory in action. 

    When I search for "critical mass" I surface lots of content about women on boards but I am looking for material that is about employee demographics (not manager demographics specifically) and broad cultural change.

    Thanks for your help! I will certainly compile responses and share them back to the community.

    Warm regards,

    Carol



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    Carol Kulik
    University of South Australia
    Adelaide
    61-8-8302-7378
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